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Learn About Chicago’s Native Wildlife

Carduus nutans, a type of echinacea that is an invasive plant in the Chicago area.

Summer in Chicago is gardening season and gorgeous plants are in full bloom. Enjoying time in the garden is a favorite past time of many Chicagoans. But, our gardens are under attack.

More than 500 species of plants have been introduced into the Chicago region in the past 200 years. On the surface, this may sound great– but in reality, some of these species are invasive, and are deeply hurting Chicago’s native plants. A huge part of supporting beautifying and greening the city we love, means getting rid of the invasive species that are wiping out beautiful plants that have been growing here for centuries.

This issue is not secluded to Chicago alone– invasive species are a global issue and one that will likely grow bigger without serious interference. Luckily, we can stop these pesky invaders. But how? Well, the first step is actually knowing which plants are invasive– and you might be surprised by what you find. Certain varieties of common plants such as clematis, echinacea, waterlilies, honeysuckles, Queen Anne’s lace, and ground ivy are all in fact invasive species.

Chicago Botanic Garden has posted a full list of invasive species in the Chicago area here. Check it out and take action by getting rid of these harmful plants!